The automaker learned about the problem after customers reported their airbags deployed for no apparent reason, and in some cases left occupants cut and bruised.

Mercedes says a combination of problems can trigger the driver-side airbags. Inside the steering column is a clock spring, and if that spring breaks and wiring components aren't properly grounded, an electrostatic discharge can deploy the driver-side airbag when it shouldn't deploy. If a driver needs a wake-up call, that would do it.

A driver should get some advanced warning of a problem when a red airbag warning light illuminates on the dashboard.

In addition to the 495,000 vehicles recalled in the U.S., another 400,000 need repairs in the UK and 76,000 are recalled in Canada. The vehicles were manufactured from November 2011 to July 2017.

The recall is expected to begin in December 2017. Mercedes dealers will make sure the steering components are correctly grounded, a job that should take about an hour.

To learn more about the recall, contact the automaker at 877-496-3691.

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